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Oct 25, 2004 :: It's The Fundamentals,Stupid
Appreciation (a side note from Samm's Side Pocket)
The reason we play is because we love this game, right? Well, just like tasting a fine wine, you wouldn’t just slam the entire glass without appreciating it. We savor every bite of a delicious meal and we enjoy every second of a 50 minute massage. Why would we not afford ourselves the same privilege with this game?
We have all seen players who are so enveloped with competing that they are unable to remember the reason they play at all. Those are the players (maybe ourselves) who forget, even if it’s for a brief moment, about the art of pocket billiards. Like a fine piece of art, strategically mapping an 8 ball run out deserves much appreciation.
The knowledge and skill required to pocket the 8 ball and come four rails for perfect position on the 9 ball is truly something to admire. We can also appreciate making a 90 degree cut on the 8 ball at hill-hill to win the tournament. We marvel and the back and forth break and runs during the pro events.
No matter what the outcome, our ability to see the shot, know the stroke, and successfully shoot the shot is nothing to take likely or for granted. Often times we become so caught up with results and the competing that we forget why we play at all.
So, I challenge you to ask yourself “What do I love about this game?” and the next time you are in a match and you’re getting frustrated or things aren’t going your way, just answer that question. Hopefully, reminding yourself of this answer will help keep things in perspective.
